Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Aug 4: The first batch of annual Manimahesh Yatra today left Bhaderwah for onward journey to the holy shrine of Manimahesh in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.
A group of about 2000 devotees departed from Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Bhaderwah to Bheja village where the pilgrims will stay for a night and then proceed further towards the shrine in Himachal Pradesh.
The pilgrims were seen off by the Additional SP Sanjay Sharma, Tehsildar Bhaderwah, president Sanatan Dharm Sabha Ashok Kotwal besides people from all walks of life who prayed for the happy pilgrimage.
Adequate security arrangement, drinking water facility, medicare and other facilities were made in advance by the administration for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the yatra. Free langers have been installed by various devotees en route to holy shrine Manimahesh.
Manimahesh Lake (also known as Dal Lake, Manimahesh), situated in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, is a high altitude lake. The Manimahesh Kailash peak that stands high close to the lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. This place is believed to be second to the Lake Mansarovar in its religious significance. The route to Manimahesh is via Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, Bharmour and Hadsar. Motor able road goes till Hadsar. The rest of the path is to be covered on foot, about 13 km of steep climb by the banks of Shiv Kalotri, which originates from the Manimahesh Kailash peak. During the annual pilgrimage in August – September, numerous night-shelters and eateries spring up by the trekking route. Night-shelter is also available at village Dhancho, about 6 km from Hadsar on the way to Manimahesh, round the year. Another less frequented trekking route originates from Holi, which is connected to Chamba.
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